Holkham National Nature Reserve Locations
West Pines
From water’s edge to treetopwe’re taking care
This is one of the best views on the Holkham Estate. The 360 view across the nature reserve looking look over the grazing marshes to the south, west over the dunes towards Gun Hill, north the beach and east over the pines.
The privet (small fragrant white flowers) and brambles alongside ragwort make an excellent nectar source for insects. Watch out for feeding butterflies such Peacocks, Whites and many species of bee on sunny days.
Beyond the wire fence you might be lucky enough to see our small herd of konik ponies grazing the edge of the dunes. Grazing is a vital part of our management for the rare natterjack ponds that inhabit the pools along the edge of the dunes.
Beyond the wire fence you might be lucky enough to see our small herd of konik ponies grazing the edge of the dunes. Grazing is a vital part of our management for the rare natterjack ponds that inhabit the pools along the edge of the dunes.
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Holkham Bay
The landscape and nature of Holkham Bay is dictated by the actions of the North Sea. Twice daily the tide comes in, bringing sediments of sand, shingle and shells alongside seeds of plants. Development of sand dunes and saltmarshes here have been more pronounced in modern times than many other places along the coast, creating the distinctive view you see before you.
Salts Hole
When the tidal waters formerly passed through the marshes that you see today, one of the main inlets was here at this small pool, Salts Hole.
Jordan Hide
The Jordan Hide overlooks the old marshes of Holkham, steeped in ancient history. Central in the viewpoint is the raised-up grass mound, Holkham Fort. This has origins dating back to the Iron Age with folklore involving the Iceni battling Romans and a refuge for marauding Vikings.
Costal Path
The pine woods (known as Holkham Meals) remain an important and distinctive landscape feature on the Norfolk coast.
Gun Hill
The shingle beach at Gun Hill is the perfect habitat for some of our key breeding birds such as oystercatchers and ringed plovers.